Drive train

GOOSETOHUNT

MEMBER
2007 CHEVROLET COLORADO
5 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

I was driving on highway and it seemed like it was working hard to go. Like I was pulling a heavy load or something. Then all of a sudden I heard a loud bang. Pulled over and noticed CV joint boots were messed up and there was dark oil all over underneath. I could smell it and the CV joint area was hot. I drove it home okay but 4 wheel drive did not work. My drain plug on transfer case was not tight at all. I could turn it with my fingers. I am at a loss as to what happened. I have not ever had any issues with 4 wheel drive or differentials before on this truck. Everything has been working fine. Any clues?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Hi,

If the CV boots are gone and there is black grease under the vehicle, check to make sure one of the joints hasn't broken. If one did, that will prevent the front axle from engaging.

Here is a link that describes the joint and its purpose:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-cv-joint-works

If it is possible, take a pic of what you are seeing under the vehicle. Also, let me know if there are any strange sounds since the incident. For example, is there a grinding, howling, clanking or anything different?

As far as the transfer case, confirm it isn't low on fluid. If you look at the pic below, I highlighted the fill/check plug. The one below it is the drain. Remove the bolt and the fluid should be at the top of the bottom portion of the threads where the plug was removed from.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care and God Bless,

Joe

Image (Click to make bigger)